Jim Burns, CNSNews.com
Thursday, March 14, 2002

However, H&R Block wouldn't confirm or deny any change in policy, and NRA accused the anti-gun groups of misleading people.

H&R Block, as part of a marketing campaign promoted in NRA membership magazines, said it would make a contribution to the NRA for every member who becomes a new H&R Block customer.

"The termination of this agreement is a tremendous victory for everyone who was outraged that a reputable business like H&R Block would support an extremist organization like the NRA," said Michael Barnes, president of Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence.

But NRA said the Brady news release was misleading. "H&R Block has cut ties with all interest groups and not singularly the NRA. This isn't a victory for gun control groups as the Brady Campaign would like people to believe," said Kelly Whitley, NRA spokesperson, in an interview with CNSNews.com.

"Other interest groups will no longer be part of this program with H&R Block. These [anti-gun] groups should do some more research before they mislead the public," Whitley said.

"Alliance for Justice" President Nan Aron said: "Let this send a loud message to other corporate partners of the NRA. If you support the NRA, we will work to make sure that your employees, customers, and all of your stakeholders know that you support an extremist gun lobby that is out of step with mainstream America."

H&R Block did not return several phone calls seeking comment. The company's Web site did not contain announcements indicating any change in policy with NRA or other charitable organizations.

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